Synology DS418J Review: Best Value Network Attached Storage

Synology is a popular brand manufacturer of Network Attached Storage – commonly known as NAS. These devices are file-level data storage which is attached to your computer network. In turn, NAS provides data access to several users. Synology’s latest offering, the DS418J is one of the most affordable in the market. It also gives users great value with its speedy performance and wide range of capabilities.

[ads-post]

Synology DS418J 4-Bay NAS Review

The Synology DS418J is specifically made for users who want to have a lot of storage for a reasonable price standpoint. It’s perfect for users who have excessive media library; it's also ideal for small businesses that cater to customers with data-driven services.

The Synology DS418J comes with a practical design. It’s not that stylish but it keeps up to its shortcoming by being simple. Its plain design makes it more subtle on your desk, or in your corner shelves. For purists like me, I love fact that it can’t draw any attention in our home-office. Yes, the overall design is minimalist. Its black tone is also pleasing in the eyes.

Setting Up

You’ll need to have a hard disk to set-up your Synology NAS. Once installed, you'll go directly to find.synology.com or use the Synology Assistant to help you scan your network for devices.

You don’t need to have a computer to setup the handset, you can even use your mobile phone for this process.

Once connected, it’ll prompt you to the installation of the latest operating system. You need to enroll an admin account and QuickConnect account, after which you will get app recommendations and then your Synolgoy NAS is good to go.

Function

You can do a remote and local backup for devices or even smartphones. Plus, you can make the NAS as central storage to your network. Example, you have the ability to save your video file directly to Synology DS418J; or you can store surveillance footage directly to this station.

Media Streaming is one of the strongest features of the Synology DS418J. For one, it comes with proprietary apps and player which are suited to your streaming needs. It's also loaded with popular third party apps. Plus, can also use the NAS the primary back-up device in your network. I also love the fact that the DS418J allows you to remote the NAS from any location as long as you use the QuickConnect feature.

Hardware

When it comes to the internals, Synology DS418J is powered by a Realtek RTD1293 processor. It’s a 64-bit dual-core processor that runs in 1.4GHz speed. For starters, this harnesses enough power to keep the NAS working with lower power requirements. It also packs 1GB of DDR4 RAM for faster file transfer.

Connectivity

This model is more intelligent to the NAS it replaces. It comes with four bay trays for more storage. Likewise, you'll also have easy access to fans since it can be opened on the rear. This means that you could clean the fans easily. Likewise, there’s a standard RJ45 1GbE kkport for network connectivity and two USB 3.0 ports for peripheral device connectivity.

The Wrap

The Synology DS418J is an entry-level NAS which offers more benefits than its price. If you’re trying to get your feet wet in NAS devices, the Synology DS418J could be a perfect product to start with. It also comes with a two-year warranty so you’ll get the exact premium and after-sales support from Synology.

It’s a solid performer when it comes to file encryption. And most of all, the rear-access feature is worth-noting for easy swapping of drives and regular fan maintenance. Lastly, I liked the operating system; it’s user-friendly and easy to setup even for a first time user.

The Synology DS418J is definitely a steal buy due to its affordable price and handful of great features which excels in terms of streaming and cloud storage necessities.

Pinoy Metro Geek is a PCB-SiP Package Design Layout Engineer by day and a Tech Blog Power Ranger by night. He juggles his interests in gadgets, travel and music. He likes to do all his techie stuff with his cup of coffee.